Information and communication technologies (ICT) are considered ubiquitous and pervasive in human life. In light of Abbott (1988) and Freidson's (1984) theoretical models of professionalization, this essay discusses the process of professionalization in information technology (IT) and the role of IT professionals in this process. The literature on the sociology of professions and professionalization in IT is consulted, looking for answers to the questions: Who are the IT professionals? How are they trained/What do they study? What are the regulatory instruments of their performance? Controversial and conflictual occurrences in the field are identified and discussed, with emphasis on the ideology of "open source" software; on the industry's determination over professional action; on power relations; on profession's self-regulation; on the participation of IT professionals in new professions; on personality, worldview and cultural aspects; on licensing for professional practice; on domain of knowledge and on litigation aspects. Research propositions are offered as a contribution to the deepening of each of the controversies and conflicts discussed.
Information and communication technology (ICT); IT professionals; Professionalization